According to the Halifax house prices rose in December by an average of 1.3% which amounts to about £2,600 on the avearage home or in simple terms ,ignoring the Christmas period , about £100 per day.

This of course at a time when all the 'experts' and economic pundits are claiming prices are falling so there may be some experts who will now temper their predictions of an imminent collapse in the housing market and blood on the streets.

The rise in prices does not suprise estate agents as the uncertainties of the credit crunch and the Nothern Rock has, in our experience, discouraged more sellers than buyers so the fundamental shortage of property has continued albeit in a quiter market which is normal anyway in December.

So if you are a first time buyer just consider , can you save at the rate of £100 per day or do you jump on the moving market train even if it may slow down or even stop for a while a little way down the track?

Dont forget  - even if you buy now and prices do drop a bit you will still have your own roof over your head.!